The
Period of the Catechumenate
The faith journey becomes more in-depth
after the initial commitment has been made. This period may last
one to a few years. A relationship with the Catholic community
begins. A deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and ones'
relationship with Christ begins to emerge.
The aim of this period is to deepen the
initial conversion. Catechumens with the help of catechists study,
share and reflect on the Sunday Gospels. They experience passing
on the Catholic tradition. The period is characterized by:
- Catechesis based on Liturgy of the Word
- Studying Sacred Scripture.
- Living in the life of the Catholic community
- participating in church activities.
- Prayer and worship.
- Introduction to the apostolic life.
There are two different names given to
the participants in the Catechumenate. Unbaptized members are
called "Catechumens" and baptized members are called
"Candidates".
During the period of the Catechumenate,
minor rites can be celebrated. These include: celebrations of
the Word, anointings, blessings, exorcisms, presentations of
the Creed and the Lord's Prayer, and the rite of Sending Forth
to Election.
Once God's time has been fulfilled and
the catechumen or candidate is ready to take the next step in
the process of conversion, The
Rite of Election
for the unbaptized
and the call to continuing conversion for the baptized is celebrated with the Bishop presiding.
Return
to the RCIA
menu |
Return to
the RCIA
Process